Lopez Rezoning Proposal: A Transition to Medium Density Residential
The Bentonville Planning Commission will soon deliberate on an intriguing rezoning proposal for a property located at 501 Northwest C Street. The property, currently zoned as R-1 (Low-Density Single-Family Residential), is the subject of a rezoning request to DN-2 (Downtown Medium Density Residential). The move, advocated by the property owner, aims to transform the residential landscape of this part of Bentonville.
What Does DN-2 Zoning Mean?
Rezoning the property to DN-2 would significantly change what can be developed on the land. Here are the key elements of DN-2 zoning and what it permits:
Increased Density
Single-Family Homes: Allows for smaller lot widths, enhancing the density of single-family homes where alleys and infrastructure support such development. The minimum lot area for single-family homes with alley access is 4,000 square feet, and 5,000 square feet without alley access.
Two-Family Homes: Permits duplexes, with the same lot size requirements as single-family homes.
Townhouses: End-of-block townhouses are allowed, with a minimum lot area of 2,000 square feet per unit, providing an appropriate transition between large-lot residential areas and those of higher density.
Building Types
Single-Family Detached and Attached Units
Two-Family Dwellings
Townhouses at Block Ends
Height and Lot Coverage
Maximum Height: 36 feet for all allowed residential types.
Lot Coverage: Maximum lot coverage is 50% for single-family and two-family homes and 60% for townhouse structures.
Setbacks and Landscaping
Front Yard Setback: 12 feet minimum, 25 feet maximum.
Side Yard Setback: 7 feet for detached yards, 0 feet for attached yards.
Rear Yard Setback: 25 feet.
Tree Planting: Requires one shade tree in each yard adjacent to a roadway and one in each right-of-way.
Garage and Parking
Prohibition of Front Yard Parking: Garages and parking spaces are prohibited in front yards and corner side yards, encouraging rear or side parking solutions.
Detached Garages: Must be located to the rear of the primary structure and separated by a minimum of 10 feet. Garages with alley access must be set back 8 feet from the alley.
Potential Benefits and Impact
Rezoning to DN-2 would enable more efficient land use and potentially increase the housing supply in Bentonville's downtown area. This could be particularly beneficial as the city continues to grow and seeks to offer a variety of housing options close to the downtown core.
Community and Planning Considerations
While the proposal could introduce higher density and more diverse housing options, it is essential to consider community feedback and potential impacts on local infrastructure. The Planning Commission will review the proposal in a public hearing, providing an opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and for the commission to weigh the benefits and challenges of such a transition.
The outcome of this rezoning request will be a significant step in shaping the future of Bentonville's residential landscape, balancing growth with the need to maintain the city's unique character and livability.
Next Steps
The Planning Commission will discuss this proposal at their meeting on July 16, 2024, at Bentonville City Hall. Public comments are encouraged, and the community can participate in the discussion through the provided Zoom link for remote attendance.
For more detailed information on the DN-2 zoning and its implications, residents and interested parties can review the full zoning document on the city's official website or attend the public hearing to gain a deeper understanding of the proposed changes.
